The sun hasn't set on Clayton Kershaw's Dodgers tenure after all. The veteran left-hander and longtime Dodgers icon has agreed to a new contract, ensuring his return to the team for another season, according to sources familiar with the matter. While the terms of the contract are not yet known, Kershaw is scheduled to undergo a physical examination later this week.

Kershaw's decision to re-sign with the Dodgers comes at a crucial time in his career, as he faces the uncertainties of recovering from shoulder surgery during his decorated 15-year tenure. After experiencing shoulder troubles towards the end of the previous season, Kershaw opted to undergo a procedure in November to repair his left throwing shoulder's gleno-humeral ligaments and capsule.

This surgery, Kershaw's first as a player, will likely keep him off the mound until at least the second half of the upcoming 2024 season. It poses a significant challenge for the 36-year-old left-hander, who aims to maintain his dominance as he enters the later stages of his Hall of Fame-caliber career.

Despite lingering doubts and speculation, Kershaw's commitment to the Dodgers dispelled any notions of retirement or a potential move to his hometown Texas Rangers. The pitcher has considered signing with the Rangers in the past during his previous forays into free agency, but ultimately decided to stay with the only MLB franchise he has ever played for.

As Kershaw embarks on his recovery journey, the Dodgers organization remains optimistic that brighter days lie ahead for both the pitcher and the team. His storied career, marked by numerous accolades and achievements, has firmly established him as an icon in Los Angeles. The Dodgers can now look forward to his return to the mound, albeit a delayed one, as they seek continued success in the upcoming season.

This is a developing news story, and updates on Kershaw's contract details and recovery progress will be provided as more information becomes available.